Quick and Delicious 20-Minute Pasta Pomodoro
This dish is not only incredibly quick to whip up but also bursting with fresh flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or any time you crave a delicious pasta dish. Let’s dive into the details of this scrumptious recipe, including the ingredients you’ll need, step-by-step instructions, and some helpful tips to make your cooking experience even more enjoyable!
Reasons You’ll Love This Recipe:
Quick and Easy: In just 20 minutes, you can have a nourishing and delicious meal on the table, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Packed with Flavor: The combination of sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh tomatoes creates a vibrant sauce that is both comforting and satisfying.
Customizable: Feel free to tweak the recipe according to your preferences. Add in other vegetables like spinach or bell peppers, or switch up the protein with your favorite sausage or even shrimp.
Healthy and Wholesome: With the addition of fresh ingredients and whole grains, this pasta dish is a nutritious option that provides a good balance of carbohydrates and protein.
Helpful Tips:
Reserve Pasta Water: Always remember to save a cup of pasta water before draining your pasta. It’s a secret ingredient that will take your sauce to the next level!
Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce as you go and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional herbs to suit your taste.
Meal Prep Friendly: This recipe is great for meal prepping! Make a larger batch and store leftovers in the fridge for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Fresh Ingredients Make a Difference: Using fresh, high-quality ingredients will elevate the flavor of your dish. Don’t skimp on the tomatoes or olive oil!
Ingredients You'll Need:
Olive Oil: This versatile oil is essential for sautéing the onions and garlic, providing a rich flavor base for your sauce. Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
Onion (½): Start with half an onion, finely chopped. The onion adds a sweet and savory flavor to the sauce, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
Tomatoes (1 cup): Fresh tomatoes are key to a vibrant and flavorful sauce. You can use cherry tomatoes, grape tomatoes, or even diced Roma tomatoes. The choice is yours! If fresh tomatoes aren’t available, canned tomatoes can also work in a pinch.
Garlic (3 cloves): Garlic brings an aromatic depth to the dish. Make sure to mince the garlic finely so that it distributes evenly throughout the sauce and infuses its delicious flavor.
Pasta Water: This starchy water is a secret ingredient that helps to thicken the sauce and makes it adhere to the pasta beautifully. Don’t forget to reserve some before draining your pasta!
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan adds a nutty, salty flavor that elevates the dish. Feel free to use freshly grated Parmesan for the best taste and texture.
Fresh Basil: A handful of fresh basil leaves adds a burst of freshness and bright flavor. Tear the leaves by hand for a rustic touch that enhances the dish’s presentation.
Pasta (Mafalda): I’m using mafalda pasta, a unique and charming shape that holds onto the sauce beautifully. However, you can substitute with any pasta shape you prefer, such as spaghetti, penne, or fusilli.
Turkey Sausage: For an added protein boost, I like to incorporate turkey sausage into this dish. It adds heartiness and flavor, making the meal more filling. You can also use chicken sausage or omit it for a vegetarian version.
Red Pepper Flakes: A sprinkle of red pepper flakes at the end adds a touch of heat, giving the dish an extra kick. Adjust the amount based on your spice preference!
Instructions:
Sauté the Aromatics: Begin by heating a generous drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another 30 seconds, being careful not to let it burn.
Add the Tomatoes: Next, add the cup of tomatoes to the skillet. If using whole cherry or grape tomatoes, you can gently crush them with a spoon to release their juices. Cook the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes have softened and started to break down.
Incorporate the Pasta Water: Once the tomatoes have cooked down, add a splash of reserved pasta water to the skillet. This starchy water helps to create a thicker sauce and enhances the overall flavor. Let the sauce simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to allow it to reduce slightly.
Mix in Cheese and Herbs: Stir in a generous amount of grated Parmesan cheese and torn fresh basil leaves. The cheese will melt into the sauce, adding creaminess and depth. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Add the Pasta and Sausage: If you’re using cooked mafalda pasta and turkey sausage, add them to the skillet, tossing everything together until the pasta is well coated in the flavorful sauce. If you haven’t cooked the pasta yet, be sure to do so according to the package instructions, and drain it, reserving some pasta water for later.
Serve and Garnish: Once everything is well combined and heated through, serve your pasta pomodoro in bowls. Top each serving with additional grated Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for that extra kick.
Enjoy: Dig into your delicious pasta pomodoro and savor the delightful blend of flavors in every bite!
